#arctic ground squirrel

[highways-are-liminal-spaces]

Dalton Highway, through the Brooks Range

Taken June 2023

[life-on-our-planet]

The Arctic ground squirrel hibernates longer than any other species, for more than eight months of the year-- starting in early August until April. Their heart beats about once per minute and their core temperature becomes subzero. BBC Earth

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[allosuchus]

It's a debut that's been about 30,000 years in the making. Yukon paleontologists have this week unveiled another unusual find from the goldfields near Dawson City: a mummified Arctic ground squirrel from the Ice Age, curled up in a ball as though it died while hibernating.

It was found a few years ago, but it's being shown off now because the government is preparing the dead rodent for display at the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre in Whitehorse, expected to reopen later this spring after a redesign. At first glance, the mummified animal doesn't look like much more than a dried-up clump of brown fur and skin.

"It's not quite recognizable until you see these little hands and these claws, and you see a little tail, and then you see ears," said Grant Zazula, a Yukon government paleontologist.

"I study bones all the time and they're exciting, they're really neat. But when you see an animal that's perfectly preserved, that's 30,000 years old, and you can see its face and its skin and its hair and all that, it's just so visceral. It brings it so to life."

[corvidist]

Don't really know what to call this

[palaeonecromancy]

Happy Fossil Friday!

Who: Urocitellus parryii / Spermophilus parryii

What: This week's star is the Arctic Ground Squirrel! A small reddish fronted, greyish/black speckled backed rodent in the family Sciuridae. Around 360 mm in length from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail.

When: Pleistocene - Current

Where: The Arctic Ground Squirrel's habitat ranges from the Arctic and northern tundra in North America and Siberia to the boreal forest and meadows.

Fun Fact!: siksik in Inuktitut, also known as "Parka Squirrels" and is used for winter clothing by the Yup'ik and other indigenous groups as it is a soft, light, warm fur.

Why are they cool?: They love to burrow and new research has shown that studying the location of fossilized burrows/cache sites can have implications on the loss of permafrost in the north.

[jiacast]

Winter Animals

1. Arctic Fox: Winter Behavior: Arctic Foxes have thick hides that change color with the seasons to provide camouflage. During the winter, they depend on their well-insulated fur to remain warm in the harsh Arctic conditions. They are known to rummage around for little warm-blooded creatures and fowl underneath the snow and may also scavenge carcasses cleared out behind by bigger predators. Other Times of the Year: Within the hotter months, Arctic foxes may lock in exercises like rummaging, chasing little warm-blooded animals, and caching nourishment to get ready for the winter months. They may also breed during this time.

2. Polar Bear: Winter Behavior: Polar bears are adjusted to life in the cold and are amazing swimmers. During the winter, they spend a critical amount of time on ocean ice, chasing seals. They utilize their solid sense of smell to find breathing gaps within the ice and persistently hold up for seals to surface. Other Times of the Year: 21111112In the summer and early fall, when ocean ice softens, polar bears may come aground and rummage for nourishment or hold up for the ice to refreeze. They may also be quick during this time in the event that nourishment is scarce.

3. Hibernating Ground Squirrel: Winter Behavior: Ground squirrels, such as the hibernating ground squirrel, hibernate during the winter. They withdraw to burrows, where they lower their metabolic rate and enter a state of torpor to moderate vitality. This hibernation period makes a difference in helping them survive the cold months when nourishment is rare. Other Times of the Year: In hotter seasons, ground squirrels are dynamic over the ground, scavenging for seeds, natural products, and creepy crawlies. They also lock in exercises like burrow upkeep and social intelligence.

4. Snow Owl:

Winter Behavior: Cold owls are well-adapted to cold situations and are dynamic throughout the day. In the winter, they explore for small mammals like lemmings and voles in open areas and tundra districts. Other Times of the Year: During the breeding season, cold owls may set up domains within the cold tundra. They construct homes on the ground and are known for their unmistakable white plumage that gives successful camouflage in blanketed scenes.

5. Reindeer/Caribou: Winter Behavior: Reindeer and caribou are well-adapted to cold climates. During winter, they utilize their hooves to burrow through snow to reach vegetation underneath. They shape expansive crowds, moving in the direction of nourishment. Other Times of the Year: Within the warmer months, reindeer and caribou may brush on an assortment of plants and give birth to their young. They may relocate long distances between their summer and winter ranges to optimize access to nourishment assets.

[amnhnyc]

With Halloween right around the corner, we’ve got a “spooky” fossil for you! This mummified arctic ground squirrel was frozen into the permafrost some 20,000 years ago. Usually, only hard skeletal parts of an animal, such as bones or teeth, are preserved as fossils. But the dry, frozen conditions within permafrost “freeze-dried” the squirrel and prevented its skin from decaying!

Photo: © AMNH

[bignaz8]

One day around 32,000 years ago, an arctic ground squirrel ate parts of a plant, silene stenophylla, including its seed. The squirrel was digesting it when its life ended.

Its body was recovered from permafrost and examined. Scientists germinated this plant seed – This silene stenophylla just bloomed.

It is 32,000 years old.

The strength, the vitality and stamina of living things of life itself is incredible.

[ingek73]

Comedy wildlife photography awards 2024 – in pictures

Loved-up brown bears and whispering raccoons feature in this light-hearted look at a selection of finalists from the Nikon Comedy Wildlife awards. A winner will be announced on 10 December

Matt Fidler

Thu 26 Sept 2024 08.00 BST

Hello world

Black hole with ant peering through autumn leaf

In a dark forest in Maashorst in the Netherlands last autumn, a happy red ant looks down at us. I like the tones of the autumn leaf. So warm. The ant was fast, but with a little help of a flashlight I was able to freeze the motion

Photograph: Alex Pansier

Mantis flamenca

Mantis mediterranea holding arms up in a comedic pose

On my way back in the car from a photo walk around a marsh near my town (Onda in Spain), I braked suddenly. This was when I first saw my friend, the Flemish mantis. You can imagine the faces inside the passing vehicles, seeing a car with its indicators on, the door open, and a madman lying on the ground with his camera

Photograph: Jose Miguel Gallego Molina

The speed skater

A Steller’s sea eagle skating on ice

A Steller’s sea eagle in drifting sea ice off the coast of Rausu, Hokkaido, Japan

Photograph: Mark Meth-Cohn

In love

Bears hugging in a lake

After the meeting ... comes the best hug. Bears in Sitka, Alaska

Photograph: Andrea Rosado

Smooching owlets

Three spotted owlets on a branch

It was truly a funny sight to see two spotted owlets (in Gurgaon, India) trying to get some privacy as their offspring stood next to them with a grin and closed eyes

Photograph: Sarthak Ranganadhan

I’ll tell you a secret

Three racoons in a tree

A tiny raccoon whispers into her mother’s ear in Germany

Photograph: Jan Piecha

Easy fellas – Hajime

Three polar bears on ice with the one in the middle standing

Hajime is the term used by the referee in Judo to invite opponents to start fighting. Here, the standing polar bear appears to adopt the gesture to prepare the other bears to fight (Arctic wildlife refuge, Alaska)

Photograph: Philippe Ricordel

Hide and seek

Cheetah hiding behind a tree with a Topi in the background

We were on safari in Kenya and saw this beautiful female cheetah looking for a mate. A group of topi were also keeping a close eye her as she left messages for a potential partner on various trees. This shot makes me think the cheetah is about to shout: ‘Ready or not, here I come!’

Photograph: Leslie Mcleod

The contemplative chimpanzee

Chimpanzee scratches his chin in jungle

This was shot in the jungles of Uganda when following a group of about 50 chimpanzees. They were clearly thinking how close chimpanzees are to humans

Photograph: Arvind Mohandas

Mafia boss

Flying squirrel in a tree sucking on small twig

This flying squirrel in Hokkaido, Japan, looked as if he was sucking a cigar, like a mafia boss

Photograph: Takashi Kubo

All via (& a few more)

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from The Revelator:

Thirty minutes’ drive outside northern Canada’s largest city lies one of its best-kept secrets.

The Yukon Wildlife Preserve spans more than 700 acres and features 12 iconic Yukon species in their natural habitat: wood bison, mountain goat, woodland caribou, mule deer, muskox, red fox, thinhorn sheep, moose, elk, Canada lynx, arctic ground squirrel, and arctic fox. It has a long history of rehabilitating injured animals and breeding rare species, and it also serves as a critical stopover and monitoring station for migratory birds.

The site, which celebrates its 20th anniversary as a preserve in 2024, dates back to the 1960s and a man the Canadian Broadcasting Company once called “one of Yukon’s most colorful characters.”

Founder Danny Nowlan was a former forest ranger and preeminent falconer who grew up skipping school in favor of trapping animals and selling their pelts. In 1967 he purchased the property north of Whitehorse, “determined to build not a zoo, but a showcase for northern species in their natural habitat,” the Yukon Times wrote.

Over the next 35 years, Nowlan and his wife would turn the empty property into what they termed a “game farm,” although they didn’t raise animals for hunting or trapping, as the term typically implies. They raised and sold animals to zoos and game farms throughout Canada and the United States and used the earnings to build a wildlife rehabilitation center. As the years went on, they offered educational tours to allow visitors to see native species in large, semi-wild habitats.

Among the many species the Nowlans raised, in custom-built breeding pens and an avian hospital, were peregrine falcons and other birds of prey. The falcons raised there were either sold — using the proceeds to mitigate the poaching of wild populations — or rewilded as nearby populations declined.

Their conservation efforts garnered a national spotlight, and notoriety, when the couple were swept up in a falcon-trafficking sting, arrested, and charged with laundering wild falcons to Arab royalty. Depending on the telling, Nowlan and his wife were either ruthless masterminds who had found a way to finance their conservation habits by trafficking the very birds they were protecting or arrested without merit.

All the falcons were seized. After three years of a trial that at the time was the longest and most expensive in Yukon history, and the Nowlans’ near-financial ruin, they were acquitted of all charges.

When Nowlan and his wife retired in 2001, they put the site up for sale. Members of the community began advocating for the property to become a public facility, and in 2004 they succeeded.

The site is now owned by the Yukon government and operated by the nonprofit organization formed by those neighbors, the Yukon Wildlife Preserve Operating Society. It received accreditation from the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2012, joining the ranks of the Toronto Zoo and the Vancouver Aquarium.

[typhlonectes]

Arctic Ground Squirrel Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska

Arctic ground squirrels are highly opportunistic feeders. They have a widely varied diet which includes a snack smorgasbord of stems and leaves, roots, fruits, seeds, flowers, grasses and sedges, and other green or woody plants, as well as mushrooms. Arctic ground squirrels are members of the family Sciuridae, which includes marmots, chipmunks, prairie dogs and squirrels. They are the only ground squirrel species in Alaska.

via: National Park Service

[rabbitcruiser]

National Squirrel Appreciation Day

With their bushy tails and quick movements, these little creatures are a joy to watch as they scamper through the trees and hunt for nuts.

Squirrels are one of the most common animals that people see on a regular basis. These little creatures with a fluffy tail are practically everywhere–in cities, parks, college campuses and forests. They might live in trees or dig a hole in the ground to serve as a home. Some people might even say that squirrels are nuts for nuts, and can last through the harshest of winters without much trouble at all.

Squirrels have the ability to adapt to their environments quickly, they have a decent memory for some of the best locations for food, and they are super soft and fluffy. National Squirrel Appreciation Day encourages people to learn whatever they can about these creatures and admire them for their resilience in the wild.

History of National Squirrel Appreciation Day

With more than 250 species of squirrels that exist across five continents (excluding Australia and Antarctica), these little creatures are fairly prolific in most of the world. And that’s a great reason to appreciate them!

Squirrels are part of the Sciuridae family, which makes them cousins to a variety of rodents such as chipmunks, groundhogs, prairie dogs and other rodents. The earliest fossils of squirrels date back to the Eocene epoch which was perhaps more than 30 million years ago.

National Squirrel Appreciation Day was founded by wildlife rehabilitator Christy Hargrove, who is affiliated with the North Carolina Nature Center. According to Hargrove, people should consider helping to celebrate these creatures by putting out extra food and learning about the species.

Many rock funky hairstyles, survive rattlesnake bites and are extremely adorable, so appreciate the squirrels today by giving them some nuts to eat!

How to Celebrate National Squirrel Appreciation Day

National Squirrel Appreciation Day is a fun excuse to have a celebration on a random day in January. Share this holiday with friends and express that love for squirrels and try out some of these other ideas with the intention of enjoying the day and honoring squirrels:

Discover Fun Facts About Squirrels

Squirrels are considered by some to be beautiful creatures and, depending on the type of squirrel in question, it’s certainly possible to find out amazing facts about them. Try out some of these interesting facts and tidbits about squirrels to impress friends, family members and coworkers in honor of National Squirrel Appreciation Day:

An arctic squirrel can lower its temperature to below freezing to help survive the longest hibernation, which is over 8 months.

To survive in winter months, squirrels bury nuts and other treasures as a food source to come back to later. If they live in snowy climates, they may have to use their sense of smell to locate their stores, then dig through up to a foot of snow to retrieve the object.

The zig-zag patterns squirrels often run in usually means they are concerned about being chased by a predator. This clever little trick helps them to stay alive and avoid being caught by birds, foxes, cats, badgers and other predators.

Squirrels’ bodies are amazingly agile, which helps them run, climb, jump and more. They can turn their ankles 180 degrees while climbing, and can leap up to ten times the length of their own bodies.

Become More Knowledgeable About Squirrels

One great way to celebrate and appreciate squirrels is by learning more about the kinds of squirrels in each local area. Common squirrels in the United States, such as the American red squirrel, Eastern grey squirrel, and black squirrels all have their own habits and tricks that they do to survive. This is also a great day to take some time to learn about all kinds of other squirrels, even ones that are further away, especially the flying Japanese squirrels which are absolutely adorable.

Learn About Squirrel Eating Habits

It is obvious that squirrels, whether they’re ground, tree, or flying squirrels, all have their unique purpose in the global ecosystem. One way they do this is when squirrels work to bury nuts into the ground, which is a behavior called caching. This work they do not only allows them to save food for the winter months, but it also allows them to assist with fruit and tree renewal, because while some will be able to remember where they buried the nuts, others will not make it back to them.

Squirrels don’t just eat nuts and seeds, though, as their diet is much more diverse than many people think. They also eat many fruits, plants, insects, berries and vegetables. One interesting way squirrels contribute to the ecosystem is through eating mushroom spores. By eating the spores and then excreting them after they’re digested, the fungi help matter to decompose and give plants the nutrition they need to grow. Thus, squirrels help maintain the symbiotic relationship between plants and mushrooms and help spread the growth of plants all over the world.

Have a Squirrely Get-Together

For those who just love any reason to throw a party, this is a unique one! Host a squirrel-themed party in honor of the day. Have guests dress up as squirrels or other rodents, and give friends squirrel-themed gifts. Snacks and treats for the party could include squirrel shaped cookies decorated with icing, or really just about any type of food that is made out of nuts! Decorate with acorns, leaves and squirrels as well as other woodland creatures. It’s likely the guests will have never been to a party quite like this before!

Source

[sottileincanto]

One day around 32,000 years ago, an arctic ground squirrel ate parts of a plant, silene stenophylla, including its seed. The squirrel was digesting it when its life ended.

Its body was recovered from permafrost and examined.

Scientists germinated this plant seed. This silene stenophylla just bloomed. It is 32,000 years old.

[neverlandmylove]

chat i saw a moose and her calf today it was wonderful also these little bird creatures and arctic ground squirrel

[willtheweaver]

A writer’s guide to forests: What is a forest and the senses

Found throughout the world, a forest is an environment in which trees are the dominant plant species. Forest can also be referred to as woods or woodland. Smaller areas dominated by trees are called grove, copse, or glade. Tree species can be monospecific or mixed. Though forests are a worldwide phenomena, they have their limits; high mountains and the extreme poles are too cold and have too little sunlight for trees to grow. The lack of water, extreme temperatures, and erosion by windblown sand and rocks mean that few, if any, trees grow in the desert. And most plants are unable to tolerate the high salinity found near the oceans. Plant and animal life can vary greatly. Tropical rainforests are biodiversity hotspots, while the boreal forests can be eerily quiet. Do your research and see what kinds of flora and fauna you can expect to find in the specific type of forest you are writing about. The details matter. Speaking of which…

One problem that writers that come from the city may have is that their forests feel empty. Everything seems quiet all the time, there is little to no variation in the environment. It just doesn’t seem natural. It is important to use the senses in order to engage the reader, or at the very least let them know you’ve done your homework. Here are some examples of what you may want to ask yourself:

Sight: See the trees? What kind are they? Evergreen? Deciduous? Are they all about the same size, or is there a mix of saplings and mature trees? Are there any clearings or open spaces? Are there undulations in the terrain due to a river valley, a ridge of hills, or a chain of mountains? Is this the tropics, or the Arctic? What kinds of animals are hiding in the shadows? Is there a clear line of sight or does the thick undergrowth swallow all but a few shafts of light? Where are the game trails, and what could have left those prints? Where do the trees end?

Sound- Do you hear the babble of a small stream? What about a raging river or a waterfall? Do branches gently sway or do trees creak and moan? The splash just now, the breaking of a branch underfoot, are they faint or nearby? Are there animals walking peacefully, or are they running frantically? Can you hear what you cannot see? An owl hidden in a hollow, squirrels running through the branches, frogs and assorted insects chirping during the spring and summer? And in the autumn, can you hear the nuts and leaves fall?

Touch- How does the cracked and fissured bark of an old oak feel compared to the smooth bark of a young birch? Is the ground stony, or soil? Has it rained recently, and if so, what consistency is the mud? What about moss, lichen, mushrooms? Is the river scalding hot or icy cold? What does the fur of a mink feel like? Are the rocks covered in plants? Is the grain corse or fine? Does the air feel dry, or overbearing humid? And is that stump fresh and hard, or wet and crumbly due to age and decay?

Smell- Is that the scent of rain on the air? How do the flowers smell? Sweet, repulsive, or is there no scent to them at all? Is the moisture of moss different to that of rain? Can you smell the pine needles, or the swamp gases? Is that the sea salt on the air? And that smell…not the most pleasant. Can it be scat or a partially eaten carcass? And can that be the smell of fire?

Taste- Some say the air has a taste. Fire is ashy, winter is cold and fresh. Dense jungles are stale and mildewy. But what of plants and animal flesh? How bitter is an acorn? How sweet is a wild strawberry? Does wood sorrel remind you of lemon? Is the fish clean or muddy? How gamy is venison? What minerals are in the water? Does it taste pure, metallic, or ‘bad enough to be healthy’?

[herzzgeist]

26) At Peace

Pairing: Law x fem!reader | Word count: 6.4k | Warnings: none

Dividers by cafekitsune

"Slow down, Phea! I don't have these special squirrel powers like you!" - "Oh bugger! No blamin' my super ninja skills, (Y/n)!", the squirrel mink Phea swings from branch to branch with ease, as for you can barely keep up with her pace. Climbing up the uneven bark of a giant nutmeg tree, your eyes accidently peek down, leaving you breathless and whimpering out of shock. You are easily almost two hundred feet off the ground. If it weren't for your stomach of steel, others might have already lost their poise, close to retching.

To Phea's notice, she comes back to your level, supporting you gently with her hand on your back: "Don't look down now eh? We don't want ya to land on your keghead, do we?" - "My god...are we finally there yet? It's been an hour now!"

Chuckling to your complaint, she heaves you up a larger branch and helps you steady your wobbly legs. Pointing to the tree crown not far above, she declares gleefully: "We're almost there! My hideout is right there on top. Hang on!"

It takes a second for you to realise, that Phea has hooked her arm under yours and instructs you to suck in your gut. Wait, what? With one powerful jump, she slings the both of you up through the tree's pointy twigs and leafs, earning a surprised yelp from you.

After that turbulent leap of faith, your eyes widen by the scenery emerging before you. What a sight to behold. An ocean of trees spreads over the lands and a majestic looking old temple peeks through the green gardens. The sun hits your face and heats up the air around you, the sweat trickling down your back.

"Beautiful, isn't it? Now, I want you to hold on to this, and we'll glide over to that temple ye?", Phea huffs satisfied, as she readies the glider in the small tree house cabin, on the wooden plattform that you took a stand. This woman is going to be the death of you. She sure is an adrenaline junky, you think to yourself, while watching the mink preparing your lift.

She guides you through the whole procedure and shows you where to land, fastening a rope to your hips, which is secured onto the glider. "Alright, all set? Awesome! Fair winds and blue skies! I'll see ya at the meeting point!" - "Wai- WOAH!", she pushes you off the edge and the glider carries you over the breathtaking picturesque jungle beneath.

The wind smoothly glides along your skin and your heart nearly beats out of your chest in excitement. Birds in all kinds of colours fly along side you, forming a 'V' flock formation. That feeling is mesmerizing and you can't help but to laugh in astonishment.

You can see the temple growing taller, getting closer and closer. This is it. Doing as Phea told, you unlock the safety rope and let yourself fall into the green lush below. Enormous leafs catch and cushion your long fall, softly sliding along the giant plant onto the ground.

As your feet touch the earth, you let out a cheer of enthrallment. Close behind you follows Phea, also coming down from her high. "THAT...was fucking amazing!" - "See? Told ya this is wicked!", you laugh delightedly, beaming at your quirky friend. Thus, she leads the way to the reffered temple right infront of you.

"I must warn ya though, no word to Wanda! I'll be road kill, if she finds out!", she mutters lowly, telling you to keep this discreet. Curious, you ask her who else knows about this. The squirrel girl gives you a short kept clarification: "Well, Wanda and Carrot, but they're not aware that me and my sister Tristan do too."

Oh dear, this turns out to be much more of a hassle than it ought to be in the first place. However, you find it strange, that this temple is forbidden to enter. "What is it with the arctic and your mink tribe? Aren't you the same kin?", this question let's Phea's fur stand on end. Anxiously she shushes you with a finger on your mouth.

"Don't you ever mention this back in the village. They will claw your eyes out...", alarmed, the squirrel sways her tail back and forth, close to whispering these words to you. Following her up the stairs, you grasp the moonstone in your hand firmly. This is the moment of truth. After months of research, this will hopefully provide you some clarity to the darkness roiling inside you.

Phea stutters, interrogating you cautiously: "So, why do ya need to know more about the arctic tribe? You friends with one or something?" - "You could say that. I'm actually trying to find out more about the moonstone's powers." By hearing that, the woman next to you freezes in place, her eyes filled with terror.

Seeing her trembling makes your head tilt in concern: "What is it?" - "This cursed thing? D-Do you have it...here?" With the pendant in hand, you show it to her by lifting it up, presenting the marvelous stone. Nothing comprehesive spills out of her, as she takes a few steps back.

"Are you actually...chosen?", Phea turns to you in worry, holding her quivering hands together. In a quick shrug you signalise your uncertainty and explain the events you've experienced relating this relic. A fascinated huff escapes your friend, as she comes closer to you again: "(Y/n), this is the reason why the arctic and jungle minks seperated. They are obsessed with the might of their so called goddess Tsukiyomi. Given our true form, as known as Sulong, as soon as we gaze upon the moon, we are granted with more strength and speed, regardless our subrace. The arctics found a way to commune with the goddess and even sacrifice themselves to earn more and more power. They're practically addicts!"

Listening to her tellings, you two follow through the wide halls of the imperious temple. A few holes in the upper walls let the light shine through, making it easier to orient yourself in this cobble stone maze. Moss and other plants uknown to you crawl along the ground, reaching up to the ceiling, nearly burying over the whole stone underneath.

At the end of the corridor appears a giant cube formed stele, encarved with strange looking language. Your eyes widen in wonder: "A poneglyph..." - "Scary eh? Ancient history of our ancestors is inscripted on this invincible rock, but given the fact, that this temple his forbidden, only shows that this one must tell the story of our seperation with the arctics."

Intimidating. There's so many questions, but it's impossible to get answers out of this unintelligeble language on this stele. How unfortunate, to this point there's no reason to stay here. Perhaps Phea is able to tell you more about the incidient and the deity.

"You mentioned Tsukiyomi. Who was Faemunlin then?" - "To be honest with ya, I have no clue. The only thing I know, he was a chosen guardian wearing this exact stone!.", this information enlightens you immensely. You understand now.

Everything what Yukino told you, back at Minion Island. Faemunlin wasn't a god, he was a guardian of the gods, a human bestowed with power beyond imagination, earning the, so to speak 'title' of a demi-god. The thoughts begin to race in your head. That stone, it's testing the bearers might, to see if one is worthy. It's the power source of a guardian.

Recalling to Yukino's told tales, Faemunlin disobeyed Tsukiyomi's conviction, to kill everyone with the will, the enemy who carries this name, instead, he fell in love with a D to his demise. He sealed his own fate. This is rather tragic. The dream you had, taking shape more or less.

As far as you know, you haven't received a clear sign of being the "chosen one", however for a short amount of time, it felt like it, after the incident at the Red Marrow Isles. A shiver runs down your spine, as it dawns on you, that you'll have to be tested once more. You need to know, to be certain.

Strangely enough, you haven't had these terrible nightmares anymore, since the one at the City Isle. Maybe you aren't the chosen one? A mixture of relief and confusion makes itself vacant in you.

Coming to a conclusion, you'll have to find a substitute necklace and wear it around your neck. The stone must be carried by heart and to your knowledge, you'll have to face a worthy opponent, for it to trigger it's powers and induce them on you. 

"Phea, I think I've seen enough. Let's head back to the village.", hearing those words, the mink's tension visibly loosens off her shoulders, relieved by your decision.

"Zoro no! He shouldn't drink any alcohol in his state!", the little reindeer gives the swordsman a piece of his mind, seeing how he swung his arm around the shoulder of the freshly stitched up surgeon of death. Who would have thought, that a doctor needed help from another doctor?

Law's right arm is completely wrapped in bandages, which should indicate to anyone with common sense, that he shouldn't be handled roughly. That perscription falls on deaf ears of the pirate hunter, for he thrusts his wooden jug filled with sake into the air, wanting nothing but to converse with the annoyed supernova sitting beside him.

"Dammit!", Law exclaims, attempting to tear himself off the highly tending to get drunk swordsman, holding him in his clutches, not exaggeratedly speaking. Chopper supresses a little giggle, watching those two stoic men roughhousing unintendedly: "He's stubborn, but as long as he doesn't smuggle some alcohol into your mug, you should be fine." - "I think I'll just pass on any kind of liquid handed to me tonight..."

Zoro seems appalled by Law's declaration and nudges him playfully: "Oh come on Casanova! Just relax! You're able to see your crew and puppy again!" How the surgeon just wants to tear this imbecile apart. With his eyes wide open and pupils barely visible, he rasps at the green-hair: "Can you not? Stop this bullshit you dumbass!"

Laughing at his gripe, the pirate hunter takes another big sip of his mug, a wide grin spreading over his face. 'Beyond repair' crosses Law's mind, knitting his brows in a head shake. Chopper doesn't quite understand the meaning of this banter and asks innocently: "Puppy? Do you have a pet dog?"

This isn't happening. Not sure how to reply to that wholesome question, the surgeon only stutters a low 'No', practically breaking the tipsy swordsman next to him. Bursting out in a snort he adds: "In his case you could call it a pet!"

That was the last straw. Loosing all his composure, he snaps at the gawking in tears moss-head: "Fuck off! Give it a rest already!" The reindeer sweat drops and tries to avert from the current topic, scratching the back of his head. "I'm curious how Zou is like. You said your crew awaits you there?", Law sighs a strained groan and gives Chopper a light hum and a nod in confirmation.

Excited, a cute laugh escapes the Straw Hat's doctor and sparkles in the shape of stars beam out of his eyes: "This is all so nerve wracking. Well, the positive way I mean. But, I'll have to excuse myself for now. Need to check on some antipyretic analgesics for you. See ya!" How can something so cute talk so professionally? It's beyond Law's comprehension, but he considers it to be rather adorable, not likely admitting it to public that is.

Again, the swordsman presses his elbow into his sides coyly: "Pet." - "Shut up."

Time stands still for you, feeling as if you're on holidays, enjoying a safari trip. If only it weren't for the ever growing ache in your heart. You notice how the crew is overflowing in worry as well, drowning themselves in scittery and nervous conversations, speculating if something might have happend to the Captain.

The moon slowly switches places with the sun, the dark blue sky being enlightend by the soft white light of the trabant. Laying in your hammock, you stare up into the sky, a low little 'I love you' whispered to yourself, wishing he was here right now.

Dreamily closing your eyes, approaching footsteps keep you from taking a nap. Indeed, a nap. You weren't able to sleep the past few days, overthinking the Captain's arrival over and over again. Turns out to be more difficult than you anticipated. At the beginning, you were fully confident, that it will be bearable. Oh how wrong you were.

Tristan greets you warmly, giving you a sweet: "Garchu (Y/n), how are you doing? I thought I'd keep you company for a bit." - "Tristan! Garchu! That's really kind of you." Taking a seat next to you on a neighbouring hammock, she lets it sway back and forth playfully, joining you in watching the stars glide by faintly.

Surprised, the squirrel mink points to the sky: "Oh look! A shooting star! Make a wish!" Taken aback, your head shoots to the direction she indicates to you and you smile by the sight of the scene playing before you. The wish you make is more than obvious, Tristan however isn't aware and asks you about it, the curious girl she is.

Humming shyly, you reveal it to her: "I wish, that our Captain will arrive soon." Tristan's bushy tail starts to sway restlessly, as she looks at you knowingly. "I sense you want to mate with him." - "What the- Tristan! Since when have you been so straight foward?! N-No...I-", the way you hold yourself, trying to hide your creeping blush on your face, only lets the nurse burst into laughter.

There's no way you can hide your true feelings from her, mink's probably have a keen sense of smell or just have a very formidable intuition. Could turn out quite bothersome, if the topics they managed to identify aren't kept discreet.

"There's no denying it, apologies.", she humbly bows her head to you, her ears drooping slightly in abashment. Accepting her apology, you wave it off, not taking her statement personally. She is right however, you want him. The dream you had recently proves it quite vividly.

The hammock sways you from left to right, softly rocking you into tiredness. You feel how your eyelids grow heavier with each blink you take. The observant nurse Tristan is, huffs at you musedly and heaves herself out of the taut cloth: "I think it's time for you to take some rest. I wish you a good night, (Y/n)." Bearly capable to speak, you mumble a low 'Goo- nigh- Tris...tan'.

She gently closes the door to your balcony and makes sure, your little flat is secured. Her lips form into a content smile, thinking what a curious and loving human you are.

You feel hot. Why? Squiggling in your hammock, your eyes open up in a small crack, realising the warm rays of the sun dance through the air, heating you up like a sausage in a, quite literally, blanket. Did you just sleep through the night and day? Stretching out the strain in your neck, you feel yourself rested for the first in a long time. Delightful.

What's not so delightful, is the fact that you overslept once again. Storming into your room, hunting for some clothes and attempting to fix your hair in the mirror, you prepare to make your way to the inn's dining room, where you're supposed to meet your crew mates for breakfast.

A peek to the clock tells you, that it's way past breakfast time. "Oh my fu- gods.", you curse inwardly, picking up the pace and closing the door behind you with a loud slam. Running through the village you greet each and every citizen with a meak smile, which is no news to them already, for they have no other image of you. That's just you and they think it to be a charming trait of yours.

Arriving at the inn you calm your fastened breath and enter with a few last exhausted huffs. Of course, you missed everyone already, sighing in disappointment. Not completely alone, you get greeted by a giggling Phea, who works at the inn: "Well good morning keghead! Did you finally have a good night's or day's sleep? It's 5 pm." - "Garchu Phea! Unexpectedly I did!"

Thus you order the usual and the squirrel readies your food and drink, while holding a cheerful chat with you. It warms your heart, being that appreciated by these kind people here in Zou. You don't take that for granted, after all they did for you. Taking you in for uncoutable weeks is something to be incredibly grateful for, how will you ever be able to repay that.

Sipping on your coffee, you ask Phea about your team: "Do you know where my mates ran off to? I haven't seen a single one of them." - "Bepo mentioned something about your Captain's Vivre card moving, being all jumpy and excited about it." What? Is he finally coming? But you just started eating. Almost tempted to gulp down the food in one go, you take bigger bites out of it, not wanting to miss his arrival. Phea slows you down: "Alright alright, put ya hooves in your tracks! You'll be spewing it rather quickly if you keep up that pace!" Biting your lip, you rumble in impatience.

Unhurried, the Captain wanders through the calmed jungle paths, engulfed in the golden light of the sunset. Sounds of crickets chirping and frogs croaking resonate from the thicket below the giant nutmeg trees. A warm breeze wafts over the slightly nackered man, observing the Vivre card in his hand, following it's indication.

Loud rustling coming from the bushes near him, catches his attention, bringing him to a stand. Lifting his gaze from the paper to his surroundings, he notices the all to familiar faces, peeking through the green growth. His lips curl into a smile and a simple chuckle leaves him, by acknowledging the silly bunch he calls his crew.

Tears of joy shoot into Bepo's black beady eyes, seeing the Captain stand only a few feet away from him, supressing the roiled up anxiety within him, whimpering and sniffling the droplets on his fur away. Everybody cheers in content and relief, practically jumping out of the hiding: "Captain!"

Without a care in the world, the Vice Commander runs up and calls out to him, hopping into his arms, nearly crushing his superior in his bear hug: "You came for us!" Thrilled, they gather around their long-awaited Captain, throwing their fists into the air in glee. "I missed you! All the members of the heart pirates are here!", in a broken voice, the polar bear nuzzles up his snout against Law's cheek repeatedly, earning a sneer from him.

Shachi reluctantly interrupts this reunion, nevertheless questions if his intention is to squash his Captain alive. All flustered, the Vice Commander gets back to the ground again, apologizing humbly. Pointing out his astonishment, he adds: "Captain, I'm amazed to know you beat Doflamingo!" Law, hesitantly remarking it wasn't his work completely, gets interrupted by Penguin, who dives in, suggesting to hold the conversation to catch up elsewhere. The doctor agrees to it gladly with a low 'Okay' and follows them deeper into the forest.

This oversleeping habit is going against the grain for you. How come you always miss the best part of the day, everyday? There's definitely the need for a stronger waking method. Taking the final bite off your plate, you drink the last sip of coffee to wash it down: "Gods, how embarrassing...." - "Don't be ashamed (Y/n)! We love ya just like that! Wacky and crazy. I bet your crew does all the same!"

Her words give your face a light hue of red out of abashment and you hand over the empty dishes to her, humming a sweet tone. Preparing yourself to go on your way to meet the others, you get out of your seat: "If I can help you with tonight's dinner Phea, let me know alright? Though I might not need one." The squirrel already stands in the kitchen at the back and calls out her thanks to you, accepting your kind offer.

(If you're a music person like me - listen to this - trust me it suits the vibe - https://youtu.be/NemldjT9IZg - enjoy!)

Hence you turn on your heels, to go out the front door, but a tall and familiar silhouette leans at the frame, looking straight at you. Your heart leaps out of your chest, almost immediately recognising that lean figure, presumedly waiting for you. Hesitantly you approach him and the mere shadows along his thin physique disperses into splashes of colour.

Wearing a black west with a yellow heart encircling his left side, he doesn't miss out on his usual spotted jeans and of course - his hat. A beige backpack is slung over his shoulders and his right arm is bandaged up completely. You can't believe your eyes.

Trembling in falter, your hands cover your mouth, preventing a touched cry from becoming too loud: "Holy shit...look at you, Trafalgar Law! I never thought anyone could mature that much in a brief amount of months, but here you stand!" Steel eyes mellow at your exclaim. Gradually setting his weapon to the side, he opens his arms, inviting you over.

And there you are, enclosed in his warm arms, snuggling up against his strongly heaving chest, listening to his heart, which is beating rather rapidly. You feel how your own beat synchronizes with his, closing your eyes, taking in his energy. Law's head props up on yours, also nestling his cheek against you. Phea comes back from the kitchen, but before she can even enter through the door, she freezes at the ongoing before her: "Oh, umm. I think I forgot something in the stove...I'll be right...uh."

Backing up, she considerately closes the door again, not wanting to disturb this reuniting. The Captain takes a step back to take a closer look at you, without a single word. How you long to hear his entrancing voice to speak. With utmost care, his slim hands cup your face, lifting up your gaze.

If it weren't for the evening ambience and your tensed breathing, everything around you grows silent, nothing in the world doesn't seem to dare interfere the closeness between him and you. Tears gather in the corner of your eyes out of joy as you muster a shy whisper: "You've been on my mind all the time." Languidly pressing his forehead against yours, the tip of his hat being pushed upwards, he replies uncharacteristically soft: "As you have been on mine."

And finally, you bring up the courage to kiss him. When you carefully inched closer to his face, you saw a hint of nervousness and fluster in his mesmerizing grey irises. You feel his lips quivering under yours, as you melt into him. Impulsively yet cautious, he pulls you in, the need for your touch only intensifying. The hands that cupped your face, glide down your neck, along your waist and come to rest on your hips.

At long last, his heart feels at peace, knowing you are alright. Even more than that. You stand there, in his arms, sharing his breath. It incomparably exhilarates him, for a satisfied sigh leaves him in between the kisses he plants onto your honey sweet lips.

Before it gets overly heated, he parts from you, pulling a hair strand from your face: "The others are waiting outside. Already up and about on gathering food for tonights banquet. We might want to warn your friend in the kitchen over there." - "Oh my! I'll inform her in a minute. But, how did you know I was here?"

Your innocent question lets the Captain smile subtly, as he declares: "They only jested you'd probably still be eating breakfast at this inn. Turns out they weren't wrong." Facepalming in embarrassment, you mumble your apologies through your fingers and he laughs lighty to your surprise. Taking your shielding hands in his, he gently places a kiss on your delicate skin of your digits, his gaze not a second wavering from your deep (e/c) ones, signalising you to calm down.

This simple gesture incinarates you entirely and lets you feel things, you missed so terribly all these months. Slinging the nodachi back on his shoulder, he motions you to get prepared for a joyful evening and you do as told, searching for the squirrel mink in the kitchen: "Hey Phea! The crew will be arriving with fresh ingredients soon. Up for a cooking party?" - "I bet ya! This is going to be a pretty wicked reunion feast ye?", confirming her question with a thumbs up, you take a look back at the front door, waving at your Captain in full delight, who tips his hat at you with his trademark smirk.

It fills you with joy, seeing the crew singing and dancing in elation, crowding up the whole inn. Together with Phea, you serve the food in pots and bowls of all sizes on the tables, for everyone to enjoy. You see Ikkaku hanging out with Clione and Uni, probably gossiping on and on. On the other side you discover Shachi and Penguin, toasting a bottle of sake and already awaiting his Captain, sitting at the table, is no other than Bepo, just like you taking in the vibe of his surroundings.

Carefully placing your hand on his shoulder, you ask for his well-being, who at first jumps at your sudden ministration, but grins all over both ears by hearing your voice, replying cheerfully: "Captain introduced us to the Straw Hats and invited them to our inn to share this feast with us. A few accepted, so he's bringing them over!" - "Really? This is going to be so awesome!"

With the inn full to the brim, the banquet is in full swing. Not for long, you hear Law booming through the crowd saying: "Be nice to my crew, I don't want any idiotic incidents tonight." - "Calm down, Tora-o!" That voice. Have you heard it somewhere before? That boy's laugh isn't hard to overhear and you scan the area, trying to find that face to that chipper giggling.

You take a seat at the bar and let your gaze hover over the heads, listening to the conversations, each more entertaining than the other. Then, you suddenly get fist bumped into your upper arm: "Wolf girl, long time no see." - "Roronoa! Indeed, it's been a while!" The green-head smiles, leaning at the counter next to you.

Jestingly you ask if he's in for a drink, to which of course he can't say no. In a swift movement you get to work, serving him a glass full of rich alcohol, earning a delighted grin from the swordsman, who nods at you gratefully.

"Say, I hope you are behaving around my Captain, pirate hunter?", you muse as you ready a few glasses more for additional possible orders, "As good as I can, he's a tough guy. A'ight, I'll head over to the others, see you around (Y/n)." In reply you let out a whole-hearted laugh and wish him a nice evening, as to your surprise, a little creature tries greet you.

It hops up and down and waves at you: "Hi! I just wanted to introduce myself! I'm Chopper!" - "O-Oh my god, hello! You need anything?" Kindly declining your offer he thanks you for the feast you served tonight, while munching on a candy apple. What a kind small...racoon? "Not to be rude or anything, but what are you, exactly?" - "Oh, I'm a reindeer! You're one of a few not just presuming anything, thank god!", bursting out in low titters, you give Chopper a head pat.

He gives you a shy chuckle and adds, before going his way: "I must mention, your Captain is a formidable doctor! I am one myself! It's so cool to exchange some knowledge with him, though he's kinda scary..." Surprised you let out a quiet gasp. Looking to the side, your gaze meets with Law's, who stands a few feet away from you, overhearing your chat with the reindeer. A perfect opportunity to tease: "Oh are you? Now I have two favorite doctors!" - "Oh stop it, you idiot! Haha, you don't mean that!"

Doing a little bashful dance, pink tints on Choppers cheeks as he smiles over both antlers. So, you take a peek through the corner of your eye, able to identify an overall flustered surgeon of death, doing his typical bashful hat move, turning away to hide from you, seeking company elsewhere. (Y/n) : 1 , Law : 0.

Let's see how this evening turns out, this ought to be rather stimulating.

After rearranging some pots and bowls with freshly made food, people are up for round two, giving you and Phea a hearty cheer. "Ya lot is crazy cute, I like 'em buggers!", the squirrel mink conveys to you with a sweet hum, to which you reply with an eager nod, telling her that they are the best out there.

Unexpectedly, a tall skeleton walks by you and stops in it's tracks as it sees you sitting at the bar: "Hello! You must be the lovely lady who served this banquet am I correct?" - "Th-that's me! Hope you can enjoy it...since...well. You are-" Not sure how to break it to him without actually offending him in anyway, he interrupts cheery: "Dead? Indeed! However, you're food is so delicious, my face is about to fall off."

For a fleeting moment, he only giggles inwarldy, noticing your struggle and proceeds: "Wait, I don't have a face...yohoho!" You can't help but crack up, covering your mouth to supress the outburst. That was not what you anticipated and you swipe away the tears: "Never have I ever met a skeleton this odd before! Can I offer you something to drink?" With a sophisticated bow he takes the offer and watches you prep another glas.

Thanking you, he gets stuck on a tone of curiousity and apparently means to asks for your name indirectly, thus you introduce yourself warmly. In a swoon he utters: "Glad to make your aquaintance, (Y/n). First and foremost, I have a question for you." - "Shoot." There is this dramatic build up again, as if he's preparing another joke, but you're deftly wrong about that assumption. Lowering his voice, he directs: "May I see your panties?"

Before you can even buffer what he just said, a loud thud against his head takes you aback, for an orange-haired lady just knocked sense into the skeleton. "I'm so sorry! That's typical for ol' Brook here. Please forgive him. Oh, I'm Nami by the way! Nice to meet you!", she rambles, words coming out of her like a machine gun. You don't know what to say, but only chuckle to that silly display of her tearing away that yelping skeleton, complaining about that bump she punched into his skull. How is that even possible?

Another person joins the fun, laughing at you :"Hey! You must be the Wolf girl Tora-o told me about! I saw you at the auction house, I remember you pulled a pretty brave stunt!" This must be Monkey D. Luffy, the infamous Straw Hat. What a night! So many new faces that you'll have to remember and it's not all of them.

"He told you right, I'm (Y/n). You must be Luffy, I heard you were great at Dressrosa!" - "Yup! And yeah I kicked Mingo's ass! That bastard doesn't deserve any better.", though this is a simple and delightful conversation, you are at unease in his presence. There is something about him, it's unclear to you, but it feels off. Is the D in his name concerning you?

"Oh, you got any left over meat somwhere? It's all out already.", such a bubbly boy, you're fascinated by how fast he changes the subject. Barely keeping up, you show him the way to the table, served with all kinds of meat dishes. In a blink of an eye, he storms off, screaming: "Thanks Okami!"

Okami? Did he really just give you a nickname? You don't specifically mind, but it's rather unusual to hear. Again, a shudder runs along your spine, hearing him laugh. Not that you think him awkward, quite the opposite, he is a handful sure, however you find him truly likeable. How can you not? Luffy supported your Captain beyond measure, to that you are tremendously grateful for.

Exhausted, you seek yourself to the bar, now preparing a drink for yourself, after all that ruckus. Now and then, members of your crew order a drink as well, but they don't keep you from sipping on that sweet fragrant wine. You close your eyes in felicity, indulging yourself in the faint grape aftertaste on your tongue. The burning liquid flows down your throat as you exhale in satisfaction. The white fluffy hat hovering through the crowd seizes your attention. Come to think of it, you haven't been able to talk to your Captain whole evening, not wanting to opress this poor man getting interrogated by each and every single crew member about his adventures.

You already resigned yourself to rest, which seems far from becoming a reality. Just as you took a seat back at the bar stool, a tall blonde man stands at the counter, puffing a cigarette, the smoke forming in to a heart as soon as he laid his eyes upon you: "What brings me the honor of crossing a lovely lady like you?" - "Who told you, you could smoke here Mister?"

Raising his curly brows at you he apologises and puts out the source off wafting lung clogging pungent. 'So demanding' he feebles, for now even his eyes take shapes of hearts. What is it with this man? "I'm Sanji, the Straw Hat's chef." - "(Y/n), you could say the heart pirate's Cargo Supervisor."

Resembling to Chopper's little bashful dance, he cups his reddening cheeks in his hands and expresses his pleasure in meeting you. One can see you are clearly getting uncomfortable around him being so foward, inching in on you without regard of personal space. Unconsciously, you observe that the Captain has exited out the front door, all the while you remain occupied with keeping this highly meddlesome man at bay.

"Sweet (Y/n)-chan, will you share the receipe to that amazing stew with me? You have no idea how much you inspired me!", he coos at you, attentively propping himself onto the heightend desk next to you. Without question, he's too close for comfort. On your temple builds a droplet of sweat, slowly gliding down you skin, only enhancing your hardship: "Well, uh...I-". Is all you're able to mutter, before the blonde vanishes in a fraction of a second, leaving you completely bedazzled.

"Miss me?", a more intriguing figure appears infront of you, flashing you a charming sneer that you find so overly attractive. Shit. (Y/n) : 1 , Law : 1. Was that for the indirect 'favorite doctor' banter? You should have seen it coming, that a certain white hat might interfere this rather inescapable encounter, with the goal to get right back at you. Still, never will you get used to his ability to teleport and swap places with anything and anyone he wants.

A blush makes itself visible on your cheeks, for Law exchanged himself with the pestering chef, meaning he took his exact position, only a few inches away, narrowing at you. The stuttering mess that you are, blurts out: "It seems to me, it's you who missed me." - "Don't be ridiculous (Y/n)-ya, I just saved your stupid behind."

Coming from the entrance yells an angered chef, storming right at the surgeon with such fury: "Tora-o! How dare you take me away from this gorgeous angel on eart-" How you love witnessing this play of Law turning around, giving him his famous death stare, growling at the frozen curly brow: "You mess with my crew, you bear the concequences. Move it!"

He bumps into the blonde's shoulder and pushes him along, the chef tumbling backwards, holds out to you: "We were only chatting Tora-o!" - "I don't think you need to stand twenty inches close to hold a mere conversation, Black-Leg-ya." Why does the Captain's composure through all this, heat you up to the core? That little glance over his shoulder, while walking off the perverted chef, gods be damned, it sends tingles all over your body. What are you on about, Trafalgar?

The eventful evening comes to an end. More and more people leave the feast, heading to their sleep quarters or continuing to party elsewhere, not wanting to overstay their welcome at Phea's inn. Back in the kitchen, you and your squirrel mink friend clean the dishes, keeping the chatting at minimum, for the both of you are quite tired at this point.

"Thank you for helping me out tonight (Y/n), that would've been a real pain in my fluffy bum!", you chuckle to her expressive choice of words and you smile warmly in reply.

After a long night of completing the last few chores, you stretch strainedly and swing your hoodie over your shoulders. Looking up at the clock hanging on the wall, you sigh in irritation, for it says thirty minutes past midnight and you call out to Phea: "See you tomorrow?" - "Yeah nah, I'll be over at Auntie Wanda's, the inn's closed tomorrow, but we'll prolly see eachother, no biggie!"

Before closing the kitchen door behind you, you wish her a good night and make your way to your temporary flat. It was then, when you realized, a man stands at the entrance's doorframe, again. Talking about déja-vu?

"Can I help you doctor?", you walk up next to him, cooing a cute little hum at him. He looks you up and down and offers you to walk you to your quarters, to which you can't supress a big smile to. "We didn't have the chance to fully indulge ourselves in our reunion." - "That we haven't. Aren't you tired of telling your stories for the quadrillionth time?", the two of you leave the inn and he huffs to light amusement.

"One more time can't hurt. Other than that, I don't mind if it's you.", those mellow steel eyes practically envelope you in a fuzzy warm feeling. There's no place on earth you'd rather be right now, than here beside your Captain.